Document-imaging illumination arrangements with intensity with adjustment

ABSTRACT

A check Sorter-Imager-Processor with two (or more) imaging sites, each lit by a beam through a fibre-optic array, with a lens focusing the beam on each array such that a shift in lens-focus reduces output light from the array, the two sites being thus &#34;matched&#34; in light-intensity by merely focus-adjusting these lenses.

This is a continuation of Application Ser. No. 07/419,572 filed10-10-89, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,003,189.

RELATED CASES

Note the following related U.S. applications, all filed on 10-10-89 andassigned in common herewith: U.S. Ser. No. 419,572 (now U.S. Pat. No.5,003,189) for "Document-imaging illumination with fibre optic intensityadjust"; U.S. Ser. No. 419,560 for "Infra-red extraction fromIllumination source"; U.S. Ser. No. 419,044 (now U.S. Pat. No.4,993,802) for "Randomizing optical converter for illumination beam" andU.S. Ser. No. 419,045 for "Packaging of components for image-lift.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to illumination for automatic, high-speeddocument processing, and more particularly to associatedlens/fibre-optic means for adjusting light intensity.

BACKGROUND, FEATURES:

High-speed check processing systems are well known in the art. Theserequire intense illumination means as workers know, especially with"electronic-imaging", where images of the two sides of a check aretaken, stored and retrieved--as opposed to physically handling checks toprocess them. Many difficulties and disadvantages of present systemsrelate to how well the checks are imaged and illuminated. If thedocuments are not properly illuminated and imaged, the result is apt tobe errors in reconciling and balancing check transactions and inreporting to customers (e.g. monthly statement).

Workers recognize that electronically-stored data ("electronic images")can be processed much quicker, more reliably and less subject to error.But to do so, one must first capture an accurate image, or modifiedimage, of the physical document and convert this into electroniccomputer (EDP) signals. The EDP image-signals can then be manipulated(e.g. be reproduced for visual review, be sorted and distributed, etc.)much more rapidly, easily and reliably than physical documents.

Current systems contemplated for "electronic image-lift" teach using avideo camera by which an operator views the front and back of the actualdocument as desired. Based on what he sees, the operator canelectronically enter document-data into a computer system; e.g., suchthings as check-amount, account number and other data necessary forprocessing document transactions. Such physical viewing islabor-intensive, is subject to error (e.g. from operator fatigue) and issubstantially slower than an automated image-capture arrangement.

Workers are beginning to think of using imaging technology as a way ofimproving document processing, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat.Nos. 4,510,619; 4,205,780; 4,264,808; and 4,672,186. Generally, imaginginvolves optically scanning documents to produce electronic images thatare processed electronically and stored on high capacity storage media(such as magnetic disc drives and/or optical memory) for later retrievaland display. It is apparent that document imaging can provide anopportunity to reduce document handling and movement, since theelectronic images can be used in place of the actual documents.

It would be somewhat conventional to think of document processing with"image capture" using video cameras, with two light sources, one toilluminate each side of a document, plus various lenses to focus lightonto the document. Successive document-images ("image slices") can bereflected from the document, front and back, into respective videocameras. These can convert the optical image into electronic signals;which can then be converted by appropriate circuitry into digital form.But the foregoing would have serious disadvantages; e.g. it wouldrequire two light sources and two camera systems--something expensive toprovide and cumbersome to coordinate.

This invention addresses such disadvantages; e.g. teaching use of asingle, high-intensity, well-cooled light source (cf. high-output xenonbulb, requiring substantially less power than a two-lamp system); andmounting the light source and associated optical components on a singlebase, and under a document transfer track, for ready access (e.g. formaintenance) and for better thermal isolation. Also, the taught systemis modular (e.g. to plug-in to a relatively conventional sorter); itsimplifies service and manufacture using interchangeable,easily-installed components. The system disclosed usesrandomly-distributed fiber optics and electronic image conversion meansin a high speed, automated "image-lift" system; e.g. one capable ofaccommodating the present advanced needs of financial institutions fordocument processing.

An object hereof is to address at least some of the foregoing problemsand to provide at least some of the mentioned, and other, advantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will beappreciated by workers as they become better understood by reference tothe following detailed description of the present preferred embodimentswhich should be considered in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, wherein like reference symbols denote like elements:

FIG. 1 is a perspective schematic idealized configuration of an entireDocument Handling System DH apt for using our invention,

FIG. 2 is an idealized perspective of a Document Processor portion ofthis system DH; with FIG. 3 showing portions thereof in side view andvery schematically; and FIGS. 4, 5 showing in partial-perspectivecertain submodules thereof;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing functional units of this DocumentProcessor; while FIG. 7 diagrams image-signal flow therein; and FIG. 8is a block diagram in the fashion of FIG. 1, showing a number of suchDocument Processors;

FIG. 9 is an upper perspective view of a portion of an Image-Stationembodiment, with a different view in FIG. 9A and with portions thereofschematically indicated in the plan view of FIG. 10 and theillumination-optics portion thereof very schematically (functionally)indicated in FIG. 11;

FIG. 12 is a diagram indicating functionally, a preferred constructionof a Fibre Optic bundle portion of this embodiment; while FIGS. 13, 13Aare upper perspective views (front and back) of such a bundle, FIG. 14is a schematized front view of an input face of such a bundle; FIG. 14Agives specifications for such a bundle; and FIG. 15 is a diagram in thefashion of FIG. 12 indicating testing of such a bundle;

FIG. 16 is a schematic functional diagram of the imaging-optics portionof this embodiment; related imaging optics;

FIG. 17 is a partial, side-section of the illumination-optics of theembodiment; while FIG. 18 is an exploded diagram of the lamp-housingsub-section thereof; and FIG. 20 is a similar functional diagram of someof this illumination-optics;

FIG. 19 is a similar functional diagram of how some the imaging-mirrorsof the embodiment are packaged; while FIG. 19A is a section of a portionof the Trunnion mirror assembly thereof;

FIG. 21 is a side-section of an Energy-Dump portion of this embodiment;with an upper portion thereof shown in FIG. 22; a plan view of some"vanes" thereof shown in FIG. 23 (and front-view in FIG. 24); while FIG.25 shows the lamp assembly thereof in partial elevation;

FIG. 26 is a partial side view of some illumination optics; while FIG.26A is an enlarged detail thereof;

FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective of a mount casting for elements ofthe embodiment (with elements thereon exploded-away); while FIGS. 28, 29are side sections of this casting; and FIGS. 27A, 27B, 27C show thecasting installed in a Processor;

FIG. 30 is a schematic plan view of such imaging-optics; while FIGS. 32,33 show these elements, selectively and in sidesection; and FIG. 31shows the elements in a functional diagram;

FIG. 34 is a plot of lamp intensity vs wavelength, while FIG. 34A plotsspectral response of the embodiment camera elements with that of thetypical human eye; and

FIG. 35 is a plan view of Front and Rear illumination optics, showingthe light-paths; and FIG. 36 is a like showing of part of the FIG. 35assembly.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Exemplary use

Before giving more details of the subject image-lift embodiment, it willhelp to indicate an exemplary use-environment in which such anembodiment can be employed. Such is the document handling arrangement weshow in FIGS. 1-8 (called "System DH"). System DH will now be verybriefly summarized. The methods and means discussed herein, willgenerally be understood as constructed and operating as presently knownin the art, except where otherwise specified; likewise all materials,methods, devices and apparatus described herein will be understood asimplemented by known expedients according to present good practice.

In FIG. 1, System DH may be seen to comprise a Document Processor 1-11(also called DP-N) coupled to a Host Computer system 1-19 and one ormore Storage/Retrieval modules (SRM) 1-13. Workers will understand thatdocuments (e.g. checks, etc.) are to be fed into Processor 1-11 andrapidly transported thereby past various processing-stations (e.g.microfilm and imager as described below) to wind-up in one of severalsort-pockets (see FIGS. 2-8). An "Electronic-image" of each document is"lifted" and sent to a designated SRM 1-13 for storage (e.g. on disks,as known in the art). The SRM(s) communicate with Host 1-19 and withvarious Workstations (e.g. one or more Image Workstations 1-15; a PrintWorkstation 1-17). System DH also includes an Encoder 1-18 (e.g. toimprint MICR characters on checks) and related communications andworkstation units.

FIG. 2 indicates sub-units (modules) of Sort/Processor 1-11, includingan image-lift camera module 1-112 and associated electronics submodule1-114 (see FIGS. 4, 5). FIG. 3 indicates this in schematic side-view.FIG. 6 very schematically (block-diagrammatically) indicates imaging andother functional units; while FIG. 7 schematically indicates how someimage-lift signals are processed. FIG. 8 indicates, schematically, thepossible use of a number of Sort-Processors 1-11 and Storage Modules1-13.

Document images are to be captured at the real-time sorting speed of thedocument processor. For high-speed document processors, the sortingspeed is at least 1800 documents per minute (300 inches a second, trackspeed); lower speed document processors sort documents at approximately1000 (or less) documents a minute (e.g. 150 inches a second, trackspeed). Acquiring electronic representations of documents traveling atthese speeds is a real challenge and requires specialized hardware andsoftware.

Now, we will briefly outline how a preferred image-lift embodimentworks; and thereafter take-up various sub-units thereof in more detail.

Embodiment A, in general

In general, it will be seen that our preferred "image-lift" arrangementis adapted to be incorporated, as a module IL-M, into a high-speeddocument processor, such as Sort Processor 1-11 (see FIGS. 3, 4, 5 andassociated description). Here, the "image-lift" is performed justupstream of the sort-pockets: (e.g. see FIG. 4, camera 1-112 in ModuleIL-M). FIGS. 9, 10 show a portion of the document transport means forModule IL-M (belts BL, BL' cooperate with track-defining guides G, G' ,between which a document DC is driven past the Front/Rearillumination/imaging stations). For example, see simplified FIGS. 11, 31for a functional showing of an illumination-path, and an imaging-path,respectively; and also see FIG. 10 where each such "imaging station" maybe understood, generally, as sited where the two illumination beams,from illumination-fibre bundles 21, 21' , intersect.

The document transport in module IL-M is adapted to move documents pastfront/rear like slits (SL-F/SL-R), or image windows; these being offsetfrom one another along the transport path T-P (again see FIG. 10 andnote how the Front and Rear dual-beams intersect path T-P at twodifferent points). Associated, respective Front/Rear imaging-pathscapture an image of a document's respective front and rear faces. Thedocument transport system of module IL-M is adapted to translatedocuments, non-stop, past these slits SL at 300 ips (inches per second).Thus, at the respective points of "image-capture", the opposing trackwalls G, G' are broken by the cited illumination/readback slits SL. Eachslit SL is filled with glare-resistant glass to thus keep documents frombending into it, or being snagged thereby [also see front view in FIG.9A].

The documents are translated along this prescribed transport path T-P sothe front and rear images may be captured, in focus (FIG. 35). Thesystem uses a pair of linear-array CCPDs (charge-coupled photo-diodes,e.g. see FIG. 33) as camera means.

The illumination source (see FIG. 11) is preferably a single,high-output, high-intensity xenon lamp X-L (e.g. 1000 watts), encased ina heat sink SK (e.g. see FIG. 18, and fins ff in FIG. 17) andfan-cooled. Its beam is filtered by a "hot mirror"/"energy-dump"combination 2-1/E-D (this mirror, or infrared-reflector, 2-1 diverts theIR component to a special heat-dump E-D). Then, the rest of the beamgoes to a beam splitter 2-3, which passes half the illumination to aCorner mirror 2-5 and reflects half to an illumination mirror 2-7'.Mirror 2-5 reflects its beam to a like illumination mirror 2-7, which,in turn, diverts its beam (this will illuminate the document Rear)through an illumination lens 2-9, onto an associated "Rear fiber-opticbundle" 21. The fibers of bundle 21 convert the circular input-beam toan elongate rectangular output-beam (light bar). This "light bar" isprojected (focused) through an associated rear slit in Track guide G andonto the Rear side of each passing document.

The half of the light beam which Splitter 2-3 reflects to mirror 2-7'will illuminate the Front of documents; this beam is focused through anassociated illumination lens 2-9' onto a second "Front fiber-opticbundle" 21' (like bundle 21). Bundle 21' projects a similar "light bar"through its associated Front slit SL-F onto the Front side of passingdocuments.

Thus, the output of each fiber-optic bundle 21, 21' is a narrow,rectangular high-intensity beam of light--thus yielding opposed, offsetillumination beams onto offset Front/Rear slits SL-F, SL-R and onto theFront and Rear of a passing document (see FIGS. 10, 35; note beams fromfiber-optic units 21, 21').

Each beam from fibre bundles 21, 21' is, however, further divided (seeFIGS. 10, 35, 36) using beam-splitters and associated optics to producea "dual-symmetrical-oblique" illumination beam on each side of thedocument (as opposed to a more conventional single beam). We have foundthat such a pair of symmetrical, oblique beams (e.g. ±30° from theNormal is preferred) will reduce or eliminate distortion, shadowing etc.of the captured image that results from such things as creases and foldsin a document--something very important with financial documents whosesurfaces can vary widely and can present imperfections and folds whichdistort or degrade the image (taken by a CCPD). Each set of dual-beamsis focused onto a respective image slit SL to optimize illumination ofits respective document-side and thus enhance image-capture.

The two illumination-beams are, therefore reflected from a respectiveface of a passing document to yield a pair of (Front, Rear)"image-beams", each being conducted to respective "CCPD camera" (CCPD,CCPD', see FIGS. 30, 32, 33). Each of these rectangular images will beunderstood as emanating from the "document-slice" its slit produces,being taken along the "normal" to the document-face. One of the two likeimage-beams is now described. The image-beam is sent to an"image-mirror" 3-1 (FIG. 31), arranged and disposed to divert the beamdownward (see FIG. 32) to strike a rotatable Trunnion mirror 3--3.Mirror 3--3 is mounted on a rotating semi-cylindrical Trunnion 3-30, anddiverts the beam through a special "photopic filter" 3-7, then to animage lens 3-5 which focuses it onto the respective CCPD surface. TheCCPD converts the image into an electrical analog signal which is sentto data processor means for conversion to digital pulses (as known inthis art). Some critical factors of the foregoing illumination/imagingarrangement are the following:

Mounting angle and optical properties of Beam Splitter 2-3 to ensure a50/50 light distribution (front and rear); adjustability and stabilityof the trunnion mirrors to keep their image-beam centered on their CCPD;adjustability and stability of each image lens to keep its image-beamfocussed on its CCPD; the spectral output of the lamp XL; the positionof each illumination lens 2-9, 2-9' (FIGS. 17, 26), to so dimensiontheir beams onto their fiber-optic bundles as to give "matched" outputbeams of the same, calibrated intensity; the "winding" and randomizedoutput of the fiber-optic bundles, 21, 21'; the optical characteristicsof the "photopic filters"; and the Filter Response of the Hot Mirror andphotopic filters (deviation from a prescribed response will degradeimage quality i.e., color response). These factors should be coordinatedto produce images of satisfactory quality and accuracy, as will befurther discussed.

Details of Camera Submodule

Turning to our preferred imaging (camera) module embodiment (cf. 1-110FIG. 2, etc.), note that, in general, the hardware and interfacescomprise: an Image Lift Subunit, an AC Power Distribution Unit, a PowerControl Module, a Lamp power supply, Track components, Internal andExternal interfaces.

The document transport track of the Camera Submodule has physicallyindependent front and rear guide walls. They are made of metal and haveremoveable glass inserts. (The entire front guide wall assembly may beremoved.) The center (glass-in-slit) portion of the walls is named theoptical gate. The guide walls at the optical gate (slit) areapproximately 0.080 of an inch apart (slits).

Light output by each (Fr., R.) Symmetrical Lighting assembly is focusedthrough its optical gate onto the passing document (front, rear).

The guide walls are equipped with a release mechanism that opens themapproximately three inches. The release mechanism consists of anL-shaped handle and a track-open safety switch. Turning the handlecounterclockwise opens the guide wall, turning the handle clockwisecloses and locks the guide wall. If the guide wall is not completelyclosed, the track-open safety switch sends a signal to the AA logic gateon the document processor. The track-open safety switch is locateddirectly to the rear of the guide wall release handle.

The left guide wall has one beam-of-light (BOL) document detector; theright guide wall has two BOLs. The BOLs trace the progress of documentsthrough the Camera Submodule's document transport track.

Each BOL has a light source on one side of the document path and asensor (phototransistor) on the other side of the document path. Thesesensors are aligned with the light source. As documents pass through theBOLs, they interrupt the beam of light. Document detection status isinterpreted by the document processor.

Mechanical drive for the document transport track of the CameraSubmodule is supplied by the document processor through a mechanicalbelt and pulley system. The Imaging Module is the last module before thepocket modules. Because of this configuration, the Imaging Module can beinstalled into an existing DP-N (Unisys) Document Processor. Theaddition of an Imaging Module reduces the number of pocket modules thatcan be driven by the first control module from four to three. With anImaging Module installed, the second control module drives five modulesinstead of four. FIG. 9 illustrates the mechanical configuration of theCamera Submodule document transport track.

The Image-Lift unit performs image acquisition and includes: alamp-cooling fan unit, an electronic camera PWBA assembly, a pair offiber-optic/optic-tower assemblies, with lenses, mirrors etc. and amount-casting for the latter assemblies.

The Image Lift Subunit is attached to the document transport mount andcontains the mechanics, optics and electronics necessary to acquireimages of documents at the real-time processing speed of the DocumentProcessor 1-11. Images of documents are captured, in real time, as theypass through Processor 1-11 at very high speeds (prefer 300 inches persecond). The Image Lift Subunit, as above-noted, acquires documentimages by illuminating both document sides and capturing an electronicimage of each.

Illumination Elements (FIGS. 11, 17)

High intensity light is output by a high-pressure lamp XL thru anaperture S. The light immediately encounters an infrared-removing mirror("Hot mirror") 2-1 which filters-out the infrared component and reflectsit to an Energy-Dump E-D, where it is dissipated as heat (FIG. 11);[Note: excessive infrared can degrade the sensors and interfere withimaging].

Light source XL preferably comprises a 1000 Watt, high-output,commercially-available xenon lamp LS. Lamp LS (FIGS. 18, 25) preferablydraws 32 to 50 amperes at 20 volts (with a voltage rise of 30 KV. duringinitial ignition) and is mounted in a housing HG including animaging-aperture S through which its light output is projected (ontomirror 2-1 etc.) A cooling fan F (FIG. 17) is placed opposite slit S,while the bulb LS itself is surrounded by a heat sink SK (including finsff) of cast aluminum. Heat sink SK defines an inner cylindrical spacesurrounding, and contacting, bulb LS to conduct heat away. The outersurface of SK exhibits radial fins ff which are surrounded by a plasticcontainer C. Cooling air is thrust by fan F across fins ff to exitthrough exit-slots disposed all about housing HG, and around slit S.This gives a continuous flow of air for cooling the lamp bulb LS.

The Lamp Assembly XL (refer to FIGS. 17, 18) is in a sheet-metal box HGthat houses the lamp LS, the heat sinks SK and a Lamp Ignition ModuleI-m. The cooling fan F is secured to the cover CV of the box.

The Lamp Assembly and cooling fan are both field-replaceable units. Forexample, if a lamp or Lamp Ignition Module malfunctions, one unscrewsthe cover and replaces the box (and all its contents); one thenreattaches the cover and cooling fan.

Cooling fan F has a rotational sensor that monitors its performance. Ifthe fan fails, lamp LS is at risk of overheating and failing. Inaddition, fan F always turns when the document processor is on, to thusensure cooling of the lamp even if the Imaging Module is powered-off.

The Lamp Assembly is attached to the Image Lift Subunit. Light exitsthrough a hole S in the rear of the Lamp Assembly into the front of theimage lift. This mechanical interface is covered by a cylindricalurethane seal 4-7, which ensures that dust and debris do not enter theImage Lift Subunit (e.g. see FIG. 18).

Lamp LS is a 1000-watt, short-arc, high-pressure (Xenon) device thatrequires 32 to 50 amps of current to operate. The amount of currentrequired is dependent upon the age of the lamp and the intensityrequired of it. (Newer lamps require less current to operate.) Lamp LSdoes not operate correctly with less than 32 amps of current.

The intensity of lamp LS is controlled by Imaging Module softwarethrough the Diagnostic and Transport Interface and Lamp Control PWBAs.As the lamp ages, additional current is supplied to it to compensate forits aging process. The intensity of the lamp is to be thus held constantthroughout its lifespan.

Lamp LS is held in place by heat sink assembly SK, which helps dissipatethe heat energy generated. The lamp has an estimated lifetime of 2000hours. (Its life expectancy decreases slightly each time it ispowered-on.) A Lamp Ignition Module I-m (FIG. 18) provides startingvoltage; it produces a 30 kilovolt pulse at approximately 1/2 secondintervals.

FIG. 34 generally depicts the (ideal) spectral output of such a lamp LS,giving intensity vs wavelength.

The infrared energy-dump E-D consists of an enclosure SP with upper andlower sets of blackened metal vanes (v_(u), V_(L) ' FIG. 17) to absorbthe IR. A fan FN is provided at one end of enclosure SP to draw coolingair over vanes v. FIG. 21 rather schematically illustrates thisEnergy-Dump E-D in side view (upper vanes in FIG. 22), showing fan FN atthe rear of enclosure SP, with upper and lower sets vanes (v_(u), V_(L))indicated in phantom (see arrow denoting air-flow over vanes; assume IRbeam from hot-mirror 2-1 enters to impact reflector SR at the front ofSP --see schematic front view in FIG. 24; e.g., as viewed from the rightside of the showing in FIG. 23). As indicated in FIG. 23 (a schematized,partial, side-view), upper and lower vanes v_(u), v_(L) face oneanother, leaving a "convergent-cone" space there-between for beam-entry.In each set, the vanes are aligned parallel and equi-spaced (e.g. 1/2"apart); they obliquely-face the opposite set, being disposed at 45° tothe centerline of SP. Reflector S-R, provided at the front of SP,diverts the in-coming IR beam into the conical "mouth" between the twosets of vanes (v_(u), V_(L)). With the IR component removed, theremaining beam spectrum will be "safer" (cooler) and more closely"matched" to the response of the CCPD.s (see below).

The resultant "cooled" light beam is passed from hot mirror 2-1 to abeam splitter 2-3 (FIG. 11); i.e. a partially-metallized mirror thatreflects one-half the beam and passes the other half. Between beamsplitter 2-3 and hot mirror 2-1, a safety shutter Sh is preferablyprovided for selective interception of the light beam, whereby to divertthe entire beam to Energy-Dump E-D in the event of emergency shut-downor for maintenance purposes (the beam from lamp LS is powerful enough,when focused, to cause injury to the human eye; note; Xenon lamp LS ispreferably kept lit at all times during system operation; lamp lifedegrades as a function of the number of ON/OFF cycles). Shutter sh ispreferably mounted to be pivoted down (as shown), when activated, and issufficiently reflecting to so direct the entire beam to E-D (toreflector S-R thereof--see FIG. 17).

Beam splitter 2-3 thus develops a pair of like illumination beams, a"Front beam" sent to the front side of the document, and a "Rear beam"to the back side. Thus, from splitter 2-3, one beam is reflected toFront-illumination mirror 2-7', while the other (the thru-beam) goes toa Corner Mirror 2-5. (FIGS. 11, 17, 20). Mirror 2-5 diverts its beam toa second (Rear) illumination mirror 2-7. Illumination mirrors 2-7, 2-7'are essentially identical; each diverts its beam upward through arespective illumination lens 2-9, 2-9' (these are identical),and--according to a feature hereof--they can (adjustably) focus theappropriate beam-size (amount of light) on the entry-aperture of theirrespective fiber-optic bundle thereby regulating the amount of lightemitted at bundle output (e.g. see FIGS. 13, 35, 13A).

That is, rather than reducing lamp-power/intensity (e.g. via apotentiometer controlling lamp-current) as would be more conventional,we prefer to move these Lenses 2-9, 2-9' toward or away from theirrespective fiber bundles 21, 21' and by so adjusting focus, adjust and"match" their beam intensities, quite easily and inexpensively (e.g. see2-9 in FIG. 26, where such shifting is indicated in phantom). Asdiscussed later, each fibre bundle 21, 21' is adapted to receive arelatively circular input light-beam and to output it, reshaped and withsegments redistributed, as an elongate "bar" (rectangular beam) of lightwhich is quite uniform along its length and (narrow) width.

Thus, as illustrated very schematically in FIG. 14 (front view of a"circular" fibre-bundle input-face or entry-aperture 21-1F, with 21-OPrepresenting the outer periphery of this input-face), workers willappreciate that simply shifting such a lens 2-9, 2-9' to change itsfocus, one can quite simply change the beam-diameter on anentry-aperture 21-F (changing intensity at output face 21-E; yet do soproportionately), while still keeping the output "bar" quite uniform inintensity etc. (e.g. an input beam twice the size of maximum aperture OPwould yield about 1/2 the output intensity). Thus, for example "maximum"beam intensity can correspond to an input beam-diameter matching that ofthe full entry-apertures; then output intensity can be adjusted-down bysimply changing lens focus to enlarge this beam's input-diameter and soreduce the amount of entry light. And the two (Front, Rear) output"bars" can be "matched" in intensity quite easily and inexpensively(e.g. a less-desirable alternative is the well-known, expensive,delicate "iris" structure used in consumer-type cameras). Thus,according to this feature, one can calibrate and match the twoillumination intensities by simply adjusting each focus-lens onto itsfibre bundle entry-aperture. And so, for calibration ofillumination-intensity, each beam of light focused on its fiber bundleis regulated according to its lens-focus. As mentioned, eachentry-aperture 21A (of a fiber-optic bundle) is relatively circular(e.g. diam. of 0.70"), while each output-aperture thereof is arranged toprovide an elongate rectangular beam (bar of light), sufficiently highto span, and illuminate, the contemplated slit-height/document-height(e.g. 5.25" height "by 0.075"" width is found satisfactory). Eachoptic-fiber bundle is arranged to receive its respective input beam atits circular entry-aperture; and, the fibers are fanned-out, and"randomized", along their length--to be quite uniformly and randomlydistributed along the rectangular output (exit-aperture). This convertsthe input circular beam to a rectangular output beam spanning itsrespective slot (vertically and horizontally). Interestingly, bar-sizedoesn't change as a lens is focused/defocused because of this"randomization".

Thus, as a feature hereof, the optic fibers of each bundle are"inter-leaved" so that their output is "randomized", to yield lightevenly distributed along across a respective slit. That is, as indicatedfragmentarily, and very schematically in FIGS. 12, 15, fibers arearrayed from circular entry-aperture A to rectangular exit-aperture B soas to randomly and evenly distribute light along exit aperture B. Forexample the fibers at the center of entry-aperture A (where intensitymay be maximal) might be distributed uniformly along exit aperture B.Similarly, fibers (any number) at the periphery of A (where intensitymay be a minimum) will be distributed uniformly along B, yet in randomfashion (e.g. see FIG. 14A giving illustrative specification for 21).

Such randomization can be achieved by arraying a first bunch of fibersin a layer along the length of aperture B, then gathering this "bunch"into a "first cluster" at aperture A --and then repeating this manytimes, with each successive cluster placed at a different spot incircular entry-aperture A, until the appropriate aperture-B-thickness(width) is built-up.

FIG. 15 very schematically illustrates the kind of results that suchrandomization should achieve. Here, a fibre bundle 21 will be understoodas depicted with circular entry aperture A and rectangular exit-apertureB. Now, with ambient (or other reasonably good) illumination on B, oneplaces a pencil P (or other narrow light-obstruction, as P-10) acrossany part of B, at random, and observes the effect at A. Where A willnormally exhibit a dull white "glow", the obstruction should produce a"sprinkled-pepper" effect (as in FIG. 15), with a few tiny black "dots"(dark points) sprinkled relatively uniformly across A. Then, successive"blockings" at any other points along B should yield a similar effect.What should not appear at A are relatively large opacities, or a verynon-uniform distribution of black dots.

Two Dual, Anti-Shadow Illumination-Beams

Each Symmetrical (Front, Rear), illumination assembly (e.g. FIG. 36 forFront-illumination) divides the light (again) into two equal portions;these portions to be focused onto (their side of) the document intandem, from opposite 30 degree angles. This ensures that a document isevenly illuminated from two angles. For example, otherwise if thedocument has creases, those may cause a shadow which could compromisethe output image. Illuminating each side of the document from twosymmetric opposing 30-degree angles reduces the possibility of suchshadowing effects.

Each such Symmetrical illumination assembly thus shines its twolight-bars onto the document through an "optical gate" (slit) at ±30degree angles to compensate for document imperfections and provide moreuniform document illumination. The embodiment that provides these two"dual-symmetric-oblique illumination beams on each side of a documentwill now be further detailed. Since Front-side illumination-optics areessentially detailed. Since Front-side illumination-optics areessentially identical to those for the Back-side, only the Front-sidewill be detailed (see FIGS. 35, 36).

Here, the "elongate rectangular beam" (light-bar) output from the Frontfiber-optic bundle 21' goes to a respective beam splitter (14-1' in FIG.36), where 50% of the light-bar is reflected and 50% is transmitted, sothat two beams are presented on each side of the Front slit. One ofthese beams goes to a cylindrical plastic convex lens (e.g. 14-5') thatfocuses its beam through the slit and onto the "document image plane"I-P (i.e. the locus of document-passage). The companion beam goes thru adifferent cylindrical plastic convex lens 14-3' to a mirror 14-7' whichdirects it onto the same point of the "document image plane"--but doesso from a symmetrically-opposite angle (so the beams converge at ±30°from the "normal" to plane I-P; see "normal" OCL). This is done viaadjustable back-mirror 14-7' which can be set at the appropriate angleto so direct its beam onto "image plane", I-P at the same point [thruimage-slit in guideway].

Each such Front/Back optics system is identical and "symmetric", sothat, on the Front and Back side of the document, dual, converging beamsimpinge on their slit and on "image plane" IP--the Front slit beingoffset from the Rear. We have found that so projecting dual illuminationbeams at these ±30° angles provides optimal light intensity and imageclarity. As workers know, maximum illumination intensity is typicallyalong the "normal" to a document (i.e. the perpendicular to its plane)--but, unfortunately, this is also where glare is a maximum; also thisis where it is most desirable to capture an image. We find that"anti-shadow" illumination is best directed at about 45° to thedocument--but this angle gives an intensity-level that is usually toolow and inefficient (cf. reflected intensity falls-off sharply as onemoves away from the "normal"); so we prefer to accept less than optimalanti-shadowing as a trade-off to increase intensity to a moresatisfactory level--and we have found that, for embodiments like this,opposing angles of ±30° (± 5°) are surprisingly good.

"Image plane" I-P will be understood as (e.g. FIG. 35) defining thelocus of both the front and rear sides (close enough) of a document asit is being read at the two offset "imaging sites" along the documenttransport track. Each such "site" is defined by a respectiveslit-opening SL in the guides, covered by glare-resistant glass andoffset from the other slit by about 0.445 inches. It is important thatdocument location be closely controlled; i.e. for optimum focus andminimal image-distortion (due to Front-to-Rear movement of a document inthe track), the document should be restrained within ±0.045" of nominaltrack-centerline (i.e. intersection of dual, converging beams). Giventhis, the images produced by the two Front/Rear illumination beams canbe captured with uniform balanced illumination. Light intensity isoptimum where each (FR, R) set of dual converging beams intersect, andfalls-off sharply as one moves away from this intersection.

The Front "image point" (slit) is offset from that in the Rear by aspacing (e.g. 0.445 inches in the preferred embodiment) sufficient toavoid interference between beams (e.g. "back-light" from oneillumination-beam could pass thru the thin paper document and interferewith illumination-imaging on the opposite side.) System electronicsprocesses the analog signal from the CCPD detector. A Front CCPDcaptures the image on the front and a Rear CCPD captures that on theback side of the document; and appropriately times and records thesignals received so that the images recorded for the front and rearsides are properly coordinated and are identifiable (as a pair) forprocessing and storage.

System calibration and "illumination-set-up" consist in adjusting theillumination lenses 2-9, 2-9' and mirrors 2-7, 2-7' (FIG. 11) to directand focus the desired (circular) beam-size onto the circularinput-aperture of each fiber-optic bundle 21, 21'; then adjusting theFront and Rear mirrors 14-7, 14-7' (FIG. 36) to focus the two respectivepairs of oblong illumination beams (thru a resp. slit) so that each pairmeets at a common point along the "document image plane" I-P.

Having described the "path of illumination", we now turn to the"image-lift" paths; i.e. the optical paths of images from the front andthe rear sides of the document (these are symmetric, and essentiallyidentical). One side will be described in detail, with the understandingthat the essential elements and description are the same for theopposite side.

Image-Path (FIGS. 16, 30, 31, 32, 33)

FIGS. 31, 16 very schematically and simply summarize the image-path(both Front and Rear use essentially the same elements). Thus, when adocument portion (passing a respective slit) reflects the illuminationto an image-mirror 3-1, it reflects it (down) to a rotatable Trunnionmirror 3-3. Mirror 3-3, in turn, reflects it to a respective CCPD, via aphotopic filter 3-7 and image-lens 3-5. Mirror 3-3 can be rotated tocenter its beam on its CCPD.

Thus, the Front/Rear dual illumination beams (from a respectivefiber-optic bundle, after splitting) will be understood as impacting thepassing document at offset points, each illumination beam beingunderstood as reflected directly-back (i.e. normal to plane I-P) to arespective image mirror 3-1, 3-1', tilted at 45 degrees from plane I-P(FIGS. 16, 31, 32). Each image mirror 3-1, 3-1' (Front, Rear) re-directsits reflected beam vertically down to a rotatable "plane trunnion"mirror 3-3, 3-3', which diverts its beam, aiming it to be centered onthe associated CCPD via a filter 3-7, 3-7' and a focusing lens 3-5,(3-5'). Each trunnion mirror 3-3, 3-3' is mounted in a housing 3-30 (seeFIGS. 19, 19A, 31) which allows it rotational adjustment, withoutdisassembly, to adjust image position (center it) on its CCPD.

As shown in FIG. 19A, the adjustment mechanism consists of twoset-screws TS-1, TS-2 which contact seats cut-out in the ends of thesemi-cylindrical mirror-casing 3-30, each being threadably seated in thehousing. More particuarly, the trunnion cylinder 3-30 (FIGS. 19, 19A) isrotationally restrained between the tip of an adjusting set screw TS-1and a coil spring T-SP (a music-wire coil compression spring lodged inhousing OT to contact 3-30 restrainingly, being held in place by amachine screw TS-3). Rotation of set screw TS-1 will cause trunnioncylinder 3-30 to rotate about its axis against the force of spring T-SP.Once the trunnion mirror 3-3 is correctly located, a locking set screwTS-2 is tightened to lock the adjustment.

Each trunnion mirror 3-3, 3-3' thus diverts its image-beam horizontally,along a path essentially parallel to the document-path, through a"photopic" filter 3-7, 3-7" (See FIG. 31) and then through image lens3-5, 3-5' which focuses the beam onto the associated CCPD (CCPD'). Thephotopic filters 3-7, 3-7' are described later; each comprises a planeglass plate with, multi-layers of thin dielectric film, superposedthereon. This series of optical coatings is especially formulated toshape the spectral response of the system as desired. The output fromeach filter thus tailors the image spectrum and conditions it(approximately as shown in FIG. 34-A, to approximate the response of thehuman eye; here, the light from a Xenon light source LS is "shifted-red"by approximately 25 nm to give this result.

Each image lens 3-5 (3-5'), following its filter, is made adjustable soas to focus its beam onto the surface of its CCPD; and, each can beadjusted for "Coarse" and "Fine" focus by means of a rotating-cam,driving in a slot of the Tower housing OT (see FIG. 26-A).

Lens 2-9 in FIG. 26 is illustrated in detail in FIG. 26A. An eccentriccam 26-C engages in a slot on top of the image lens holder 26-H.Rotation of cam 26-C will cause the image lens holder 26-H to moveleft/right by ±0.025" (the "throw" of the eccentric section of the cam).If more adjustment is required (±0.125"), the screws (not shown)securing the adjuster body 26-B may be loosened and the entire adjusterbody, eccentric cam and lens holder moved back and forth.

For the "image-lift-path", "set-up" procedure consists in rotating eachtrunnion mirror 3-3, 3-3' (e.g., see FIG. 31) to center its beam on itsCCPD; then adjusting each associated image lens to focus its beam ontoits respective CCPD.

The (two) Electronic Camera PWBAs each include a linear CCPD sensingarray, with video signal amplification, clock generation, clockbuffering, and power distribution circuits. The selected CCPD("charge-coupled photo-diode") device will have a response analogous tothe retina of the human eye when combined with the response of thephotopic filter; this is a critical component of the system. In thispreferred embodiment, a pair of like "Reticon RL-1288" linear-array,silicon chips (with 1024 photodiodes) are used. The photodiodes arearranged and positioned to image the "vertical line" reflectedimage-beam from a document. Each like associated image lens 3-5, 3-5'gives magnification, as adjusted, to produce 0.005 inch-high pixels onthe surface of their associated respective document planes I-P. EachCCPD diode array is subdivided into eight segments; each photodiodeelement of the array converts light reflected from the document intoanalog voltage values. The converted electron-charge on the photodiodesis transferred to an analog shift register within the chip when atransfer pulse is applied (not shown, but well known in the art). Theodd and even numbered pixels of each segment are output separately. Thesensing array outputs a representation of the scanned document assixteen analog signals; each signal amplitude corresponds to a pixel'sgray level. The Electronic Camera PWBA also outputs synchronization(clock) signals and identification signals (front, rear sensing arrays).

We have determined that an optimal system response for the lightimpinging on such CCPD.s (for our image-capture purposes--factoring-inthe lamp, filter and CCPD used) should approximate the sensitivity rangeof the human eye. This is indicated in the spectrum of FIG. 34-A. Thespectral output of our selected Xenon lamp LS is fairly flat over therange 450-750 nm.; while peak human-eye spectral response is about 550nm.

We find--somewhat surprisingly--that introducing "photopic" filters, asdescribed, helps greatly to improve Blue-on-Blue contrast (i.e. contrastof blue-ink etc. on a blue background, as many checks etc. willexhibit).

Thus, we introduce filters 3-7, 3-7', which, when combined with thespectral sensitivity of the CCPD detectors, yield an overall systemresponse closely matching that of the human eye, with actual systemresponse shifted 25 nm toward the red end of the spectrum. We have foundthat such a shift improves the response of blue inks on bluebackgrounds, and, to a lesser extent, blue/green and green inks onsimilarly colored backgrounds. Experience has shown that this wavelengthshift is very effective for purposes of our instant document processing.

Our "system Response" should therefore be "photopic " and shouldapproximate the response of the human eye [we are imaging documentswhich are to be "read" by the human eye and are made up of inks andmaterials visible to the human eye]. Without this "spectral shaping"--bythe filter--of the light incident on our CCPD detectors, our systemwould "read" documents rather differently than the eye does. [e.g. itwould "see" in the infrared and would interpret color contrast ratherdifferently; but it is imperative to maintain proper, "human" colorcontrast when it comes time to reproduce the images for human use.]

FIG. 31 (see also FIG. 33) very schematically and functionally,illustrates the "imaging-path"; i.e. the path of the image reflectedfrom (a slice of) the passing document to a respective (Front or Rear)CCPD. Thus, the image will be understood as reflected from theslit-illuminated part of document doc moving along image-plane I-P, to arespective image mirror 3-1 (3-1' on other side); thence to a respectivetrunnion mirror 3-3 (3-3'); thence to its CCPD via respective "photopic"filter 3-7, 3-7' and focusing lens 3-5, 3-5'.

Imaging Process Recapitulated (FIGS. 31, 33 described for Front side;Rear side the same):

Light reflected from the front "slice" of the passing document isdirected to an "optical tower" (Front tower, OT, Rear Tower OT', seeFIGS. 32, 33 19) housing an assembly of mirrors. The light entering eachoptical tower is reflected down by an Imaging mirror 3-1, to a Trunnionmirror 3-3 below the transport level. Each Trunnion mirror swivels on adowel or pin (see 3-30) and can be set (rotated) to center its beam onits CCPD (see FIG. 19A also). Thus, Trunnion mirror 3-3 diverts itslight 90° to related "photopic" filter 3-5, which ensures that theoptical system's spectral response is optimized for the CCPD, and betterapproximates human-eye response [each photopic filter is located at thebase of its optical tower.]

Each image reflected by the trunnion mirrors passes through thesefilters on its way to the CCPD sensing array. After passing through thephotopic filter, the image is focused onto a respective charge-coupledphoto-diode (CCPD) sensing array (see "Electronic Camera PWBA" orprinted circuit board assembly) by an associated Imaging lens 3-5.

Thus, as a document passes through the Camera Submodule, an intensevertical stripe of filtered light is focused on each side, to bereflected from the document to a respective CCPD sensor mounted on anElectronic Camera PWBA.

The Electronic Camera PWBAs convert the light so reflected from thedocument into analog voltages, amplify these and send them to anElectronics Gate Submodule for Analog/Digital conversion, processing,compression, and eventual transmission to temporary storage [cf. theimages are sent to a Storage and Retrieval Module SRM for subsequentretrieval by an application program --see 1-13, FIG. 1]. FIG. 34A givesthe spectrum of total system spectral response (i.e. output from CCPD,factoring-in effect of lamp, optics and filter, etc.).

Optic elements, recapitulation

Preferred specifications for some optical elements described above willnow be given. The CCPD sensing arrays preferably consist of 1024photodiodes aligned, in one dimension, to image a vertical line of thedocument. The array is subdivided into eight segments, with eachphotodiode converting its portion of the image to an analog voltage (cf.light-induced charge accumulated on the photodiode). This is transferredto an analog shift register within the chip when a transfer pulse isapplied (not shown, but well known in the art). The odd-andeven-numbered pixels of each image (diode) segment are outputseparately, thus, each CCPD sensing array outputs a representation ofeach scanned document "slice" as sixteen analog signals, with theamplitude of each signal corresponding to its pixel's "gray level". TheElectronic Camera PWBA also outputs synchronization (clock) signals andidentification signals (front or rear sensing arrays).

The imaging module 1-110 incorporates several different types of lensesand mirrors. Thus, illumination lenses (2-9', 2-9 FIG. 11, which focuslight onto a respective fiber-optic bundle 21, 21'), are preferably 75millimeter (diameter), plano-convex lenses with a focal length of 150millimeters. Imaging lenses 3-5, 3-5' (FIGS. 16, 13, which accept lightreflected by the document and focus it onto a CCPD sensing array) aref2.8, high-resolution lenses with a focal length of 50 millimeters.

"Maximum reflectance" mirrors (front-surface mirrors with 99 percentreflectivity) are preferably used as: corner mirror, 2-5 (FIG. 17),Front and Rear illumination mirror, 2-7, 2-7', (FIG. 11) imaging mirrors3-1, 3-1' (FIG. 32) and trunnion mirrors 3-3, 3-3'.

Workers will recognize that, instead of the preferred "linear" siliconCCPD. s; in some cases Gallium CCPD.s may be used, and/or two-dimensionarrays--or even "Camera tubes". Workers will also recognize that thereare special advantages to using focus-adjustment to vary beam intensity(cf. adjust lens, vary beam-size on fibre-optic input-face)--notably,that this involves no wavelength-shift, as with more conventionalmethods. For example, it is common, with an incandescent lamp, to changethe filament-heating input-current to vary lightintensity--unfortunately this also shifts the wavelength spectrum of thelight, giving obvious problems to a CCPD or other "camera" means(similar problem with halogen lamps). So, workers may prefer ourfocus-adjustment of intensity as being unusually "wavelength-stable".

Xenon lamps (gas-discharge) are similarly "wavelength-stable" when theirintensity is varied; fluorescent lighting is almost as "wave-lengthstable", but yields somewhat less-intense light, and this would be aless-preferred alternative.

Single-casting mount

We prefer to mount illumination-optics, and the heat-producing lamp andits energy-dump, well below the transport array (platform, guides,belts, etc.) to enhance safety, ease of heat rejection, ease of assemblyand ease of efficient servicing. By contrast, it would be moreconventional to mount these items on the transport platform. Thus, asseen in FIGS. 27, 28, 29, the entire image-lift arrangement is modular,and is mounted on a single main casting M-C which is affixed (bolted) toa base plate BP (FIGS. 28, 29, 9) which carries the document-transportarray. The lamp (housing HG) and energy-dump unit E-D are mounted on arelated bifurcated casting FC which is affixed (bolted) to the maincasting M-C but under BP. On (or in) main casting M-C are mounted thecomponents making-up both (Front, Rear) "illumination paths" and both"image-lift paths" as described above. A parallelogram-shaped castingP-C, open at both ends, contains the illumination-beam splitter 2-3associated corner mirror 2-5 (FIG. 27) as an integral modular unit, andis attached to MC. Tower-castings T-C, T-C'(e.g. see FIG. 9A, notemachine cover ccv. raised) for each side of the document, eachincorporate a 45° image mirror 3-1, 3-1' (FIGS. 16, 32, 27), anassociated rotatable trunnion mirror 3-3, 3-3' and a photopic filter3-7, 3-7'. The image lenses 3-5, 3-5' and respective two CCPDs (each ona circuit board) are attached on a wall of main casting M-C.

FIG. 27A shows casting MC, with one optical Tower casting mountedthereon, placed within frame CR of the document processor 1-11, on apair of extensible rails Tw, Tw' (partly extended). FIG. 27B is a sideview, showing the rails Tw, Tw' almost-fully extended, with transportbase-plate BP pivoted up. FIG. 27C is an enlarged view of FIG. 27B, withup-tilted base-plate BP and part of casting MC shown in more detail(e.g. note the two casting "coupling-turrets" MC-B1, MC-B2; these, plusa third, MC-B3, will be understood as fitting just under base-plate BPwhen the casting MC is rolled-into Processor 1-11 on its rails Tw, Tw',and the baseplate is dropped into working position--so that three (3)bolts into MC-B-1, -2,-3 can detachably connect MC firmly to BP.)

In conclusion, it will be understood that the preferred embodimentsdescribed herein are only exemplary, and that the invention is capableof many modifications and variations in construction, arrangement anduse without departing from the spirit of the claims.

For example, the means and methods disclosed herein are also applicableto other related document imaging systems. Also, the present inventionis applicable for enhancing other forms of imaging and related opticalarrangements.

The above examples of possible variations of the present invention aremerely illustrative. Accordingly, the present invention is to beconsidered as including all possible modifications and variations comingwithin the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An arrangement for illuminating checks in a check-processing system wherein a large number of checks are rapidly continuously transported past two or more imaging stations, check-processing system wherein a large number of checks are rapidly continuously transported past two or more imaging stations, each station having a prescribed source means which projects two or more illumination-beams, one to each said station; said arrangement for each said beam comprising:beam-adjust means comprising focus means intercepting said beam and adapted to adjust the focal point thereof; a fibre-optic array intercepting each said beam, to thereby define an input-beam thereto at or near the focal point of said focus means, said array being arranged to exhibit an entry-face of prescribed diameter Dc and an exit-face configured to illuminate the respective image-site relatively uniformly thus defining an output-beam, the fibres of the array being arranged and distributed, in uniform, random fashion completely across this exit-face; said focus means operating to variably de-focus said input beam and change beam-diameter at said entry-face, sufficient to spread the beam sufficiently beyond the entry-face to thus controllably reduce the amount of the beam entering said entry-face.
 2. The arrangement of claim 1 wherein each said focus means comprises adjustable-focus lens means.
 3. The arrangement of claim 2 wherein each said lens means to normally project a maximum-diameter input-beam onto said associated entry-face, while also to shift its focus and gradually enlarge the input beam it projects onto said entry-face, and thereby decrease beam-intensity at the respective exit-face.
 4. The arrangement of claim 3 wherein the fibres of each said array are so randomized, yet uniformly distributed across its said exit-face, that anomalies across the said input-beam to said entry-aperture thereof are uniformly distributed along the said exit-face thereof.
 5. The arrangement of claim 4 wherein there are two illumination beams and wherein these respective output beams are balanced and matched in intensity by said varying of said focus and beam-diameter.
 6. The arrangement of claim 5 wherein each beam is relatively circular in crossection; wherein each said entry face is likewise relatively circular in cross-section; wherein each input beam is converted to be relatively-rectangular at the said exit-face of said array; and wherein control means is also provided for adjusting said focus means sufficient to shift focus and so reduce beam size at said entry-face as to reduce beam intensity at said associated exit-face a prescribed amount.
 7. A system for illuminating checks in a check-processing system wherein a large number of checks is rapidly transported past one or more imaging stations, each station having a prescribed image-site and being illuminated by prescribed source means which projects one or more illumination-beams to each said station; said system comprising:beam-adjust means intercepting each said beam and adapted to change its focal point; and a fibre-optic array disposed in the path of each said beam, at or near the approximate focal point of said beam-adjust means, said array operating to exhibit an entry-face of prescribed configuration and diameter Dc and an exit-face configured to illuminate the respective site relatively uniformly with an "exit-beam" therefrom, the fibres of the array being arranged and distributed, in uniform, random fashion completely across this exit-face; each said beam-adjust means being arranged and adapted to defocus its beam and so change beam-diameter at said entry-face, sufficient to spread the beam sufficiently beyond said entry-face of said array as to so controllably reduce the amount of the beam entering the array.
 8. The system of claim 7 wherein each said beam-adjust means operates to comprise adjustable-focus lens means.
 9. The system of claim 8 wherein each said lens means is arranged and adapted to normally project a maximum-diameter beam onto said associated entry-face, while also being adapted to shift its focus and gradually enlarge the beam it projects onto said entry-face, sufficient to thereby decrease beam-intensity to a prescribed intensity at the respective exit-face of the array.
 10. The system of claim 9 wherein the fibres of each array are so uniformly distributed across its said exit-face, that anomalies across the beam as presented to said entry-face are uniformly distributed along the said exit-face of the array.
 11. The system of claim 10 wherein there are two illumination beams to each said station and where the two exit-beams for each said station are "balanced" and "matched" in intensity by said varying beam focus and beam-diameter.
 12. The system of claim 11 wherein each beam is relatively circular in cross-section; wherein each said entry-face is likewise relatively circular in cross-section; and wherein each said beam is converted to a relatively-rectangular beam at the exit-face of its.
 13. In a check processing system wherein a large number of checks is rapidly, continuously transported past two or more imaging stations, each station having a prescribed image-site, and being illuminated by prescribed Source means, projecting two or more illumination-beams, one to each said station; the combination, with each said beam, of intensity-adjust apparatus comprising,beam-adjust means comprising Focus-means intercepting each said beam and adapted to change the focal point thereof; and a fibre-optic Array exhibiting a relatively circular entry-aperture of prescribed diameter Dc and an exit-face configured to illuminate the respective site quite uniformly, the fibres of the array being arranged and distributed, in uniform, random fashion completely across this exit-face; said focus means being arranged and adapted to vary the focal-point of its beam and so change beam-diameter at said entry-aperture, sufficient to spread its beam well beyond the aperture and so controllably reduce the amount of the beam entering the Array.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13 where each said focus means comprises an adjustable-focus lens means.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14 where each said lens means is arranged and adapted to normally project a maximum-diameter beam onto said associated entry-aperture, substantially span the entire aperture while being adapted for shifting its focus to gradually enlarge the beam it projects to said entry-aperture, and thereby decrease beam-intensity at the respective exit-face.
 16. The apparatus of claim 13 where the fibres of each array are so uniformly distributed across its said exit-face, that anomalies across the input-beam to said entry-aperture are uniformly distributed along the respective exit-faces.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16 where the two exit-beams can be thereby balanced and matched to be, essentially, the same.
 18. The apparatus of claim 17 where each beam is relatively circular and is converted to a relatively-rectangular beam at its exit-face.
 19. In a Check-Sorter-Imager-Processor with at least two imaging sites, each lit by a beam through a fibre-optic array, the combination therewith of intensity-adjust apparatus comprising: a lens focusing the beam on each array such that a shift in lens-focus reduces output light from the array; the two sites being thus matched in light-intensity by merely focus-adjusting these lenses. 